(L to R: Leg. David Tubiolo w/Colette Connolly, Leg. James Nolan w/John Fogarty).
BOARD OBSERVES IRISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH.
Honors Outstanding Irish-American Entrepreneurs and Community Leaders.
White Plains, NY — On Monday evening, the Westchester County Board of Legislators held its annual Irish-American Heritage Month celebration showcasing videos highlighting two first-generation Irish-Americans – travel blogger, Colette Connolly and restauranteur John Fogarty.
Chairwoman Catherine Borgia (D–Briarcliff Manor, Cortlandt, Croton, Ossining, Peekskill) kicked off the ceremony with a point of interest, saying, “Every March, we commemorate both Irish Heritage and Women’s History Month at the Board. Here’s a little-known fact that bridges the two: it was an Irish-American by the name of Kathryn Dwyer Sullivan who was the first American woman to walk in space!”
“Tonight, we have the pleasure of honoring two ‘down-to-Earth’ Irish-Americans who have made their mark bringing Irish culture and hospitality to the forefront in Westchester. Both Colette Connolly and John Fogarty have given of themselves philanthropically to serve their communities, as well as engage the wider Westchester audience in their cherished Irish culture.”
Legislator David Tubiolo (D – Yonkers, Mount Vernon) presented a proclamation to Colette Connolly, saying, “Colette Connolly makes home – McLean Avenue – truly what it is! She came here from Sligo, Ireland, educated herself, raised a family, and always was involved in the community. Then she started a travel blog called Ireland on a Budget, where she makes the best things in Ireland accessible to everyone.”
Connolly said, “When I came to America over 30 years ago, I had no idea how life would turn out for me and how I would acclimate to a new culture… My involvement in groups like the County Sligo Social and Benevolent Association, which I still belong to, was and is a way to stay connected with all things Irish here in the U.S. I see myself as a team player, helping to organize the association’s annual dinner dance and its communion breakfast.”
“Perhaps the proudest moment is when I and other members of the association march up Fifth Avenue behind the flag of Saint Attracta, a native of Sligo who lived in the 6th century and was known for her charity, hospitality, and great healing powers.”
“Over the past three years, I’ve embarked on a passion project through a blog that I created. Together with my love of travel, my experience as a writer and my intimate knowledge of Ireland, I’m eager to tell Americans and others across the globe about my native country and what it has to offer the curious visitor.”
The Board has declared March 12, 2023, “Colette Connolly Day” in the County of Westchester.
Watch the virtual presentation here: https://vimeo.com/
Minority Whip James Nolan (R – Yonkers) presented the second proclamation, saying, “In celebration of Irish Heritage Month, I am proud to recognize an outstanding business and community leader, John Fogarty, who epitomizes the Irish spirit here in our County … He came to the United States in 1971 and worked his way up. In 1998, John bought the Town Tavern in Bronxville and, after a full renovation, reopened it as J.C. Fogarty’s Bar and Restaurant. Today, J.C. Fogarty’s is one of the most successful Irish restaurants in the tri-state area.
“John cares deeply about his community. Over the years, John has supported various charitable organizations, including Bedford Park Seniors, the Northeast Bronx Community Coalition, the Special Olympics, The Community Fund, St. Baldrick’s, the Irish Holy Ghost Fathers, and Cabrini of Westchester. Fogarty also organized a relief effort in Bronxville for victims in the Rockaways after Hurricane Sandy.”
Fogarty humbly thanked Legislator Nolan, saying, “This honor is not just mine, but for every Irishman who immigrated here looking for a better life. We found a better life here and share a heritage with 10% of the American population. We, like everyone in the United States, all worked hard to get here, and for everyone who is still persevering in their lives - I am rooting for you! As the famous Irish novelist James Joyce once said, ‘Your battles inspired me. Not the obvious material battles but those that were fought and won behind your forehead and against the world.’
The Board has declared March 10, 2023, “John Fogarty Day” in the County of Westchester.
Watch the virtual presentation here: https://vimeo.com/
Read a program for Monday night’s event at: https://www.
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